Enrichment

We are proud of our Enrichment Programme introduced a few years ago. It takes place one afternoon a week for pupils in Prep 1 - Prep 6 who participate in a number of modules. Examples of the modules within the programme are: Outdoor Education - Forest School (Prep 1 - Prep 4) and the John Muir Award Scheme with a focus on conservation and ecology (Prep 5 and Prep 6). Other units include Maths Problem Solving (Prep 5 and Prep 6), Philosophy for Children (Prep 5 and Prep 6), English Speaking Board (Prep 3 and Prep 4) and Drama. Prep 1 and Prep 2 take part in modules of swimming at Wincanton swimming pool.

The Enrichment Programme is an excellent opportunity for pupils to spend an extended period of time each week with the tutor team and visiting providers to enable deeper learning to take place. In addition, each class has form periods with its form teacher, as well as a form assembly time on a Wednesday morning. The PSHE programme is covered during the designated form PSHE lesson, form periods, the Enrichment Programme, assemblies and during the day to day life of the school.

The Enrichment afternoon is also an opportunity for some scheduled rehearsals for productions and House competitions which in the past have encroached on core curriculum time.

The activities within the Enrichment Programme have been planned to complement and extend the core curriculum and to develop skills such as independent thinking, problem-solving, confidence and self-esteem, communicating clearly, creativity and team work. There are also opportunities for setting and achieving personal goals.

Pupils in Prep 5 and 6 look forward to their annual residential course at an outdoor centre on the Mendips. The team-building day at the beginning of each academic year at an outdoor pursuits centre is always popular with both staff and pupils!

In the Spring term, Prep 3 and Prep 4 have the opportunity for a residential experience in the junior boarding house and two days of team building and outdoor activities at Mill on the Brue.

We encourage the girls to take part in national competitions, inter-school academic challenges and in enrichment courses offered at local universities and centres. The termly Head’s Challenge is another opportunity for pupils to tackle tasks designed to extend and stretch them.